Superficial frostbite of left wrist, initial encounter

This code signifies a diagnosis of frostbite affecting only the superficial layers of the skin on the patient's left wrist. It indicates the initial presentation of this injury, without deeper tissue involvement or a history of prior treatment for this specific episode.

Use this code for patients presenting with a new onset of superficial frostbite localized to the left wrist. This would include symptoms like numbness, tingling, or waxy-looking skin without blistering or tissue necrosis. It is appropriate for the first encounter where this condition is diagnosed and treatment initiated.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "superficial" and the exact location "left wrist."
• Verify this is the "initial encounter" for this specific frostbite episode. Subsequent care would use a different seventh character.
• Do not use if there is evidence of blistering, tissue loss, or deeper tissue involvement; these require more specific frostbite codes.